| Description | Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a gram-negative, enveloped virus with an icosahedral shape, classified as a mesophile due to its optimal growth temperature around 37°C, and is a chemoheterotroph as it derives its energy from host cell resources. CMV can infect various body sites across multiple species, predominantly affecting humans but also found in other mammals, including primates and even some rodents. It is classified as an obligate intracellular parasite, relying entirely on host cells for replication and metabolic functions. Cytomegalovirus is a member of the Herpesviridae family and possesses a double-stranded DNA genome. This virus establishes lifelong latency in the host after primary infection, which often goes unnoticed. CMV can be reactivated during periods of immunosuppression, leading to serious health complications, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, such as organ transplant recipients or those with HIV/AIDS. The virus is primarily transmitted through bodily fluids, including saliva, urine, and breast milk, making it highly transmissible among individuals, particularly in close-contact settings. The immune response to CMV is complex, involving both humoral and cellular immunity. Notably, CMV is known for its ability to evade the host immune system through various strategies, such as downregulating major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules, which allows it to persist unnoticed for extended periods. Infection with CMV has been associated with a range of conditions, from asymptomatic carriers to more severe outcomes like pneumonia, retinitis, and congenital disorders in newborns. Understanding CMV’s biology and its interactions with the host is crucial for developing effective vaccines and therapeutic strategies against this pervasive virus. |
|---|
